Early in my career I was advised, “Have a role at a meeting. Don’t just eat a roll.”

This is advice I often savor, whether or not I’m attending a meeting. What value can I add to a project? How can I best support the idea? Am I the right person for this initiative – am I just taking a seat at the table so I can eat a roll?

The next time you’re invited to a meeting or project, ask yourself what’s motivating your participation.

Is it the bountiful tray of pastries and rolls that will most certainly be in the center of the table – especially appealing since you missed breakfast? Or, is it the appetite and passion you have for the role?